Should the local grocery story or convenience store sell liquor?  The state legislature is once again considering a bill to do just that and hearings are now set to begin in Topeka.

Despite that, Kansas liquor store-owners have learned that, according to a survey, a majority of Kansans say the laws should be left alone.

Jim Stienert owns a liquor store in Hays and told Hays Post he doesn’t believe every liquor store in town would shut down if the law is changed. “It would be devastating to small retailers but some of the stores would find a way to stay open,” Stienert said. “It is just like what the big stores have done to other retailers.” Stienert also believes that the public would see an increase in the price for spirits and it would have also an impact on how tax dollars are spent. “The state’s Alcohol Beverage Control is one of the nation’s best,” admitted Stienert.
“However, if they have to increase coverage from 700 locations to 4000, it will have an impact and cost the state more money.”

A public opinion poll commissioned by Keeping Kansans in Business asked 500 Kansans likely to vote in 2014 what they thought about allowing grocery and convenience stores to sell liquor, wine and full-strength beer. According to the poll, 66 percent of those asked said they oppose that change. Liquor store owners are pleased with the results